8 North Carolina Agritourism Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List
North Carolina has a long list of agricultural achievements, ranking first in the country in farm cash receipts for sweet potatoes and tobacco, second for eggs and poultry, and third for pork and trout. So it comes as no surprise that the state is home an abundance of agritourism destinations to accompany its thriving ag industry. Whether you are a long-term resident or tourist passing through, these eight North Carolina agritourism destinations are well worth a visit.
1. Newgrass Brewing
First on our list of North Carolina agritourism destinations is none other than Newgrass Brewing. Located in the beautiful city of Shelby, Newgrass Brewing holds the title for first microbrewery in Cleveland County. The owners are passionate about crafting extraordinary beers that can be enjoyed in a casual setting with good friends and family. Their tasting room features a stage that often showcases live music, an outdoor beer garden to enjoy a pint in the great outdoors, and small plates to share with everyone gathered around the table. One of the best things about this local brewery is that they source several quality ingredients from North Carolina farms to bring you the best drinks possible.
See more: 10 Farm-to-Pint Breweries You Should Visit
2. 1870 Farm
If you have kids, you are guaranteed to enjoy a trip to this educational North Carolina agritourism spot. 1870 Farm is a 17-acre farm nestled in the heart of Chapel Hill with a multitude of gardens and more than 70 farmyard friends, including bunnies, pigs, donkeys, goats, cows, sheep, horses, chickens, turkeys, alpacas and llamas. They host several summer camp programs and school field trips, but you can also schedule a farm tour if you’re just passing through the area and want to spend a few hours learning more about agriculture. Be sure to look at their event calendar too, as they offer special activities all year round that are well worth the trip.
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3. Asheville Farmstead School
Less than half an hour away from thriving downtown Asheville is Asheville Farmstead School. This nonprofit farm- and forest-based school is designed to teach children and their families all about homesteading and agriculture through natural sciences. Practically every age group is welcome to participate in the school’s activities, starting with preschoolers and working all the way up to family groups. Short day camps are a wonderful and unique way to spend a portion of your vacation, but they also have seasonal nature-themed events and activities and the Enka-Candler Tailgate Market that sells fresh local produce and heritage crafts just waiting to be enjoyed.
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4. North Carolina Arboretum
North Carolina is simply bursting with flowers, plants and natural life, which is why the North Carolina Arboretum is a must for agriculture lovers traveling through the state. Acres and acres of manicured gardens and trails are just waiting to be explored, and each one features something new and wonderful to discover. You could easily spend an entire weekend perusing the various exhibits and events no matter what time of year you arrive. We highly recommend flipping through their events calendar as it’s often full to the brim with activities for guests of all ages.
5. Banner Elk Winery & Villa
We couldn’t put together a list of North Carolina agritourism gems without including Banner Elk Winery and Villa. This picturesque property is everything you would hope for in a Blue Ridge Mountain destination. Whether you want to swing by for a tasting or book your entire stay at the private villa retreat, this place is an absolute must if you find yourself passing through the state. Wine lovers will be especially thrilled with the selection available at Banner Elk, which has won a myriad of awards, including gold medals at the 2013 International Eastern Wine Competition and medals at the 2012 NextGen Wine Competition and 2012 North Carolina State Fair Wine Competition.
See more: North Carolina Gift Guide: Shop Local This Holiday Season
6. Homeland Creamery
With more than 150 dairy farms in North Carolina, how do you narrow down the list to find one to visit? If it sounds overwhelming, don’t worry because we’ve got you covered. Homeland Creamery is run by sixth- and seventh-generation dairy farmers who have called the same farm home for decades. In addition to their farm store, which is filled with products like butter, milk and ice cream, they also offer tours of the farm for those who want to get a little more hands on. Guests can enjoy a hayride around the property while learning all about dairy cows and maybe even seeing some newborn calves.
See more: North Carolina Dairies Diversify to Create New Revenue Sources
7. Millstone Creek Orchards
North Carolina has a reputation for growing some of the juiciest produce in the country, which is why it should come as no surprise that an orchard is on our list of can’t miss agricultural destinations. Millstone Creek Orchards grows everything from apples and peaches to blackberries and blueberries, and they even have pick-your-own options for those who want to explore the fields with buckets in tow. You can look through their impressive list of activities on their events calendar and make plans to stop by their apple barn mobile market to explore produce and products from other farms in the area.
See more: Agritourism Is Booming Despite Pandemic
8. Good Ashe Lavender Farm
Want to experiencing a relaxing visit to a fragrant North Carolina lavender field? Add Good Ashe Lavender Farm to your North Carolina agritourism bucket list. This small family farm grows organic lavender using natural spring water and crisp mountain air, which creates some of the finest and most aromatic cuttings you’ll find. The lavender season generally runs from June to August, which means you’ll want to plan your trip around this time if you want to experience the thriving fields firsthand. The family regularly updates their social media accounts with information on seasonal products and pick-your-own dates, so be sure to keep an eye out if you want to spend a leisurely afternoon here.